How Many Members Does a Gym Need to Be Successful in 2024 (And How To Get Them)

Content

In the ever-evolving landscape of the fitness industry, one question remains paramount for gym owners and entrepreneurs: How many members does a gym need to be successful? 

As we navigate the dynamic terrain of 2024, this question takes on new dimensions, influenced by technological advances such as the implementation of gym membership apps, changing consumer behaviors, and the lasting impact of global health trends.

This comprehensive guide delves into the heart of gym membership dynamics, exploring not just the numbers, but the strategies that drive sustainable success in the modern fitness world. We’ll examine the multifaceted factors influencing membership numbers, from location and pricing strategies to the quality of equipment and the diversity of classes offered.  

How many members does the average gym have?

The average gym has about 1,500 people who go there. But this can be different for gyms that work in different ways, have different ideas, or are in different places.

Average members - gym’s business model

Whether you’re a seasoned gym owner looking to optimize your membership base or an entrepreneur planning to enter the fitness market, this guide offers invaluable insights into achieving and sustaining success in the dynamic world of fitness in 2024. Join us as we unravel the complexities of gym membership and equip you with the knowledge to thrive in this exciting industry.

Key Takeaways

Understand your membership needs and metrics

The success of a gym is no longer measured solely by the number of people passing through its doors. Today’s fitness centers must navigate a complex ecosystem where digital engagement, personalized experiences, and community building play crucial roles alongside traditional metrics. 

Group fitness classes

With the online fitness market projected to reach $59 billion by 2027, gyms must adapt to these changes to attract and retain members effectively. 

Gym membership demographics and preferences

The fitness industry has seen a notable shift in member demographics and preferences in recent years. While the 18-34 age group remains a core target, the 35-54 age segment has gained significant traction, now accounting for nearly 45% of total memberships.

Younger members, aged 18-34, tend to prioritize group fitness classes, high-intensity training, and access to the latest workout equipment and technology. They often favor flexible, month-to-month membership options that accommodate their dynamic lifestyles.

In contrast, the 35-54 age group increasingly seeks a more holistic approach to wellness, valuing not just physical exercise but also mindfulness, nutrition, and recovery. This demographic gravitates towards specialized fitness programs, personalized training, and premium amenities like saunas and recovery lounges.

Successful gym - membership trends

Interestingly, the rise of hybrid memberships that combine in-gym and online fitness options has appeal across all age groups. These flexible plans allow members to maintain their gym routine while also accessing on-demand classes, virtual coaching, and digital workout content – a trend accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, a 2023 industry survey found that nearly 60% of gym members prefer a hybrid model, citing convenience and the ability to customize their fitness regimen.

As the fitness landscape continues to evolve, successful gyms will need to cater to these diverse member preferences, offering a range of membership options and tailored experiences to attract and retain a broad demographic.

GOOD TO KNOW!

The average age of gym members is 40 years old, with 63% of members being women. Millennials and Generation X account for 57% of total memberships, while Generation Z represents 14%.

Member engagement and retention

Did you know that even 67% of members never use their memberships, highlighting a substantial gap in engagement and retention? This statistic underscores the need for effective strategies to re-engage inactive members and ensure they derive value from their membership.

REMEMBER!

The average gym membership retention rate is 72.4%, indicating that the dropout rate is around 27.6%. Improving retention by just 5% can increase profits by 25-95%.

Engagement strategies are crucial for retaining members. By providing meaningful experiences, such as workshops, meetings, and volunteer opportunities, organizations can foster emotional and social engagement.

Regular communication, including personalized gym text messages, fitness newsletter and surveys, helps to understand member needs and preferences, thereby enhancing cognitive engagement. Automated sequences and two-way communication can also encourage behavioral engagement by making interactions seamless and relevant. 

How many memberships does a gym need to sell to be successful?

Calculating overhead costs is essential for gyms to set accurate membership pricing, enhance profitability, gain a competitive advantage, and make better business decisions. This process ensures that the gym operates efficiently and effectively, ultimately benefiting both the business and its members.

How to get a fitness business with new members?

Calculating overhead is key for gyms to determine the true cost of membership. What’s most important?

  1. Accurate pricing – Overhead calculations allow gyms to determine the true cost of membership, ensuring that prices reflect actual expenses incurred.
  2. Determining optimal membership fees balances profitability with affordability for members, thus avoiding under- or overpricing.
  3. Understand overhead costs, which include indirect expenses such as insurance, administrative fees and office supplies, which significantly affect a gym’s overall profitability.
  4. Competitive advantage – Gyms that accurately calculate and manage their overhead costs can offer competitive pricing strategies. 

GOOD TO KNOW!

The average gym has approximately 1,500 members. However, successful gyms typically aim for at least 500 to 1,000 members to ensure sufficient revenue to cover costs

The average number of members at small gyms and large chains

How many members does a typical Planet Fitness have? How many should have a small gym? The average number of members varies significantly between different types of gyms, reflecting the scale, business model, and target demographics of each facility. 

Commercial gym vs. traditional gym

The disparity in membership numbers highlights the difference in business approaches – while large chains prioritize accessibility and affordability, smaller gyms focus on tailored experiences and close-knit communities.

How many members do large gyms have?

Gym Chain

Number of Members

Number of Locations

Headquarters

Planet Fitness

18+ million

2,400+

Hampton, New Hampshire

LA Fitness

4+ million

700+

Irvine, California

24 Hour Fitness

3+ million

280+

Carlsbad, California

Crunch Fitness

2+ million

400+

New York, New York

Anytime Fitness

2+ million

4,700+ (Worldwide)

Woodbury, Minnesota

Gold’s Gym

2+ million

600+ (Worldwide)

Dallas, Texas

Equinox

1+ million

100+

New York, New York

Life Time Fitness

1.7 million

160+

Chanhassen, Minnesota

Orangetheory Fitness

1+ million

1,500+ (Worldwide)

Boca Raton, Florida

Variations in membership numbers (small gyms vs. large chains)

Large gym chains like Planet Fitness, LA Fitness, and Anytime Fitness boast millions of members, with each location serving thousands of individuals. These large-scale operations benefit from nationwide or even global reach, extensive marketing, and a wide array of amenities that attract a broad customer base. 

Health club as gym business
In contrast, smaller, independent gyms or boutique fitness studios, such as CrossFit gyms, yoga studios, and specialized training centers, typically have a much lower membership base, often ranging from a few hundred to a couple of thousand members. These smaller gyms tend to focus on niche markets, offering personalized services, community-oriented environments, or specialized fitness programs. 

Find more thanks to a table that illustrates how many gym goers are needed to cover basic operating costs and how many are required for profitability. These numbers will vary depending on the gym’s expenses, membership fees, and target revenue, but this provides a rough guide based on common scenarios.

Gym size / type Monthly operating costs Average gym membership cost Minimum members to cover costs Target members to gain profit
Small Boutique Gym $10,000 $50 / month 200 members 300 members
Medium Gym $25,000 $60 / month 417 members 500 members
Large Gym / Fitness Center $50,000 $75 / month 667 members 800 members
Personal Training Studio $7,500 $100 / month 75 members 120 members
High-End Gym / Health Club $75,000 $100 / month 750 members 1000 members

5 factors influencing membership numbers

The fitness or gym industry is a dynamic landscape, with numerous factors influencing the size and growth of a gym’s membership base. We prepare 5. crucial elements that can significantly impact membership numbers.

1. Gym size and capacity

The physical size of a gym, and its ability to accommodate a large number of members, is a primary consideration. Larger facilities with ample workout space, equipment, and amenities can attract and serve a greater member population.

Go to the gym as fitness professionals

2. Location and demographics

A gym’s location and the surrounding demographics play a pivotal role. Gyms situated in densely populated areas or near high-traffic commercial centers tend to have a broader appeal and larger potential member base.

Proximity to the gym is a top priority for many members. Conveniently located gyms with easy access tend to have higher membership rates. 

Find perfect location that is close to most gym members

3. Pricing structure

Members consider the membership fee and the perceived value of amenities, classes, and services. Lower fees and a good selection of classes can attract more members.

The gym’s pricing strategy, including membership fees, initiation costs, and any add-on charges, can greatly influence membership numbers. Offering flexible, tiered pricing options caters to a wider range of budgets and preferences.

Own gym with perfect gym goers

4. Equipment and facilities

The quality and modernity of common gym equipment significantly impact membership numbers. Modern facilities and well-maintained equipment attract more members and enhance their overall experience.

Invest in fitness facilities

5. Classes and additional services

Offering a diverse range of classes and additional services, such as personal training, nutrition counseling, and wellness programs, can significantly boost membership numbers. You can also invest in custom branded fitness app or gym CRM to gain more gym goers. Members are more likely to join gyms that provide comprehensive fitness solutions tailored to their interests and goals.

Think of fitness clubs and group classes

3 future trends affecting fitness membership in 2024 and beyond

As the fitness landscape continues to evolve, savvy gym owners are keeping a keen eye on the latest trends set to reshape the industry in 2024 and beyond. Three key areas are poised to have a profound impact on fitness membership and the overall member experience.

1. Hybrid fitness models (in-person and virtual offerings)

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual fitness, but this shift is far from temporary. In 2024, the most successful gyms will seamlessly integrate their physical offerings with robust digital experiences, such as through gym management software or gym membership app.

Members will expect a cohesive journey that allows them to complement their in-gym workouts with on-demand classes, personalized coaching, and community-driven challenges – all accessible from their smartphones. Gyms that master this hybrid model will appeal to a wider demographic, from time-strapped professionals to those who prefer the flexibility of working out at home.

Invest in new gym members

2. Personalized fitness experiences through technology

Advances in fitness technology are enabling gyms to deliver truly personalized experiences like never before. Smart mirrors, wearable trackers, and AI-powered exercise platforms are empowering members to optimize their routines, monitor progress, and receive tailored recommendations. 

Gyms that invest in these innovative solutions like group training software will attract a new generation of tech-savvy fitness enthusiasts seeking a more immersive, data-driven approach to reaching their goals. By seamlessly integrating these technologies, gyms can foster deeper member engagement and maximize retention.

Offer personalized gym attendance

3. Emphasis on wellness and holistic health approaches

As consumers become increasingly conscious of the interconnected nature of physical, mental, and emotional well-being, gyms must evolve beyond just physical fitness. In 2024, the most successful facilities will shift their focus toward comprehensive wellness, offering amenities and programming that address sleep, nutrition, stress management, and recovery. 

This might include on-site meditation studios, healthy cafes, and access to registered dietitians or mental health professionals. By catering to the whole-person needs of their members, gyms can differentiate themselves and cultivate a loyal community of health-conscious individuals.

Invest in workout equipment

15 effective marketing strategies how to get more gym members

Understanding the fitness membership landscape is only half the battle. That’s why we’ve compiled 15 actionable tips on how to get more gym members, providing you with a toolkit for growth in this competitive industry. How to increase the number of members? These strategies range from leveraging social media and community partnerships to implementing cutting-edge retention techniques.

Gym member - how to get them?

1. Use gym membership management software to get better offer

Leveraging gym management software like WodGuru can help you streamline operations and offer better value to members. That platform automates tasks like attendance tracking, billing, and member communication, freeing up time to focus on growth strategies. You can also use it as gym billing & payment software to increase average members.

By integrating technology into your membership model, you can provide a seamless experience that attracts new sign-ups and retains existing members.

WodGuru - best gym membership software to get more members

WodGuru stands out as the premier gym membership software for attracting and retaining members in today’s competitive fitness landscape. Its intuitive interface streamlines member management, allowing gym owners to focus on growth rather than administrative tasks. 

WodGuru’s robust features include automated billing, class scheduling, and attendance tracking, ensuring a seamless experience for both staff and members. The software’s integrated marketing tools enable targeted campaigns and personalized communication, significantly boosting member acquisition and retention rates.

2. Invest in gym membership app (member app)

Investing in a gym member app is a powerful way to enhance communication and engagement. Custom branded fitness apps like WodGuru offer features like workout tracking, virtual classes, and member profiles that keep people motivated and connected to your gym. 

By providing a convenient, personalized platform for members to access your services, you can increase retention and attract new sign-ups who value the added convenience and community.

Invest in gym membership app to increase gym membership statistics

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW?

The integration of custom branded fitness apps is becoming essential for member engagement and retention. These apps can enhance the member experience by offering workout tracking, virtual classes, and personalized fitness plans.

3. Leverage digital marketing

Leveraging digital channels is essential for reaching potential members in today’s landscape. Optimizing your website for SEO, running targeted social media ads, and building an email list can help you attract new sign-ups and stay top-of-mind with your audience. Tools like WodGuru – best gym marketing software, make it easy to integrate your website with your gym management software, ensuring a seamless experience for new members.

Invest in digital marketing as many gym owners

4. Implement referral programs

Providing a range of membership options caters to diverse preferences and budgets, making your gym more accessible to a wider audience. Consider offering short-term, family, and corporate memberships in addition to standard options. WodGuru gym membership management software features make it easy to set up and manage various plans.

Average gym membership cost

5. Offer flexible gym memberships options

Providing a range of membership options caters to diverse preferences and budgets, making your gym more accessible to a wider audience. Consider offering short-term, family, and corporate memberships in addition to standard options. Gym management software like WodGuru makes it easy to set up and manage various plans, ensuring a seamless experience for new members.

Offer flexible gym memberships

6. Host community events and challenges

Creating a sense of community is key to member retention. Hosting events like fitness challenges, charity drives, and social gatherings helps members feel connected to your gym and each other. Leverage your gym management software to promote these events, track participation, and foster a supportive environment that keeps people coming back.

Be one of the best health clubs

7. Partner with local businesses and organizations

Collaborating with complementary businesses and organizations can help you reach new audiences and provide added value to members. Consider partnering with local health food stores, physical therapists, or sports teams to offer discounts, host events, or provide specialized services. Use gym CRM that integration capabilities make it easy to connect member data across various platforms.

Find perfect business partners

8. Find your niche services and personalization

Offering unique, specialized classes and services can help your gym stand out in a crowded market. Consider targeting specific demographics like seniors, families, or athletes with tailored programs. Gym and fitness booking software help with scheduling and attendance tracking features make it easy to manage specialized offerings and provide a personalized experience for members.

Increase number of members of your fitness club industry

9. Think of marketing and seasonal promotions strategies

Offering seasonal promotions, such as discounted memberships or free trials, can attract new members during peak seasons. Referral incentives, where existing members receive rewards for bringing in new sign-ups, are also an effective way to grow your member base. Gym or Bjj software can help you track and manage these promotions seamlessly.

Add promotional offers

10. Add virtual training and online class offerings

Adding virtual training and online class offerings to your gym’s services can enhance member engagement and retention. Providing on-demand or live-streamed workouts allows members to stay active even when they can’t make it to the gym. Gym and yoga studio software offers a video workout platform that integrates with your existing offerings, making it easy to implement virtual training.

Offer personal gym training option at your industry

11. Invest in personal training options

Investing in personal training options can be a powerful way to attract and retain members. One-on-one coaching helps members achieve their goals more effectively and creates a strong bond between the trainer and client. Personal training software can help you manage schedules, track client progress, and streamline billing.

Think of additional services to get new members

12. Create a welcoming gym atmosphere

A friendly, inviting gym atmosphere encourages members to stay and recommend your gym to others. By using a gym member app, you can create a community feel by sharing member achievements, hosting events, and making communication easier between members and staff.

Create a welcoming gym atmosphere

13. Provide excellent customer service

Excellent customer service is key to member retention. Quick response times, personalized attention, and resolving issues efficiently can all be managed through gym management software, which allows your team to track and respond to member queries in real-time, ensuring high satisfaction.

Average membership gym options

14. Regularly update equipment and facilities

Keeping your gym’s equipment and facilities up-to-date shows members that you are invested in their experience. Regularly updating machines, adding new amenities, and maintaining a clean, modern environment can attract new members and keep existing ones engaged. Always track your common gym equipment maintenance and plan for upgrades.

Invest in cardio machines and other stuff

15. Offer diverse and trending fitness programs

Offering diverse fitness programs, such as HIIT, Pilates, or functional training, helps cater to a wide audience. A gym app can display the latest class schedules and allow members to book classes instantly, increasing participation in trending fitness programs and keeping your gym relevant to current fitness trends.

Member retention - how many members do your gym need?

FAQ

Yes, opening a gym can be a good investment if properly planned. The success of a gym depends on factors such as location, target audience, membership pricing, and the services offered. On average, gym memberships range from $30 to $100 per month, which can provide a steady stream of revenue. 

However, a well-structured business plan that includes diverse membership options, additional services (like personal trainers), and effective marketing is crucial for profitability. Using gym management software can also optimize member engagement, streamline operations, and increase retention rates, making the business more sustainable.

How many members are quitting every year? They quit for various reasons, including: 
  • lack of motivation, 
  • unfulfilled expectations, 
  • financial constraints,
  • disconnect with the gym’s offerings. 

Members may also leave due to poor customer service, overcrowded facilities, or outdated equipment. To minimize churn, gym owners can use CRM systems to track member satisfaction, offer personalized fitness programs, and create engaging experiences through community-building events and flexible options like online training.

Gym owners can manage fluctuating membership numbers by leveraging gym management software to monitor trends and predict busy seasons. Offering flexible membership options, loyalty programs, and seasonal promotions can help maintain a stable member base. Additionally, providing virtual fitness classes and optimizing facility usage during off-peak hours ensures that gym operations remain efficient, even with varying membership levels.

Related Articles

Share this article

Download free Ebook: Booking classes optimizer

We will send the materials to your email

*Only for gym owners!